This document defines and provides characteristics of epics. It explains that an epic is a long narrative poem about heroic deeds, and that epics typically involve heroes valued by their culture, gods or supernatural forces, and vast journeys. Some epics are based on oral traditions and involve founding nations or battles against monsters. Examples of famous epics from various cultures and time periods are also listed.

1. What is an
Epic?Epic?
What is an

2. Epic Fail?
Have you ever heard
someone say “epic
win” or “epic fail?”
What does this mean?
On your note sheet, write
down what you think the
word “epic” means.

3. Epic: Definition
Used as a noun: A long poem that tells the
deeds and adventures of heroic or legendary
figures, or the history of a nation.
Used as an adjective: Heroic, meaningful,
timeless, and impressively great.

4. Epic: Opposite?
What is the opposite of an epic (the noun)?
What is the opposite of epic (the adjective)?
Let’s figure it out as a class.

5. Characteristics of all epics
1. Epics are written as long, narrative poems
or use lofty, poetic language.
2. Heroes in the story have qualities that the
culture as a whole values.
3. Heroes in the story are important people of
high standing in society.
4. The setting is vast: heroes go on a journey.
5. There are gods or supernatural forces
involved in the story.

6. Characteristics of someepics
1. The epic is based on stories that were told
as part of a culture’s oral tradition.
2. The Hero is often a god or son of a god.
3. The story is often about the founding of a
nation.
4. The story often
involves a war
or battles
against monsters.

7. Epic: Opposite?
Add more:
What is the opposite of an epic (the noun)?
What is the opposite of epic (the adjective)?
Let’s figure it out as a class.

8. Examples of Epics
The Iliad and Odyssey (Ancient Greek)
The Aeneid (Ancient Roman)
Gilgamesh (Ancient Mesopotamian)
The Ramayana (Ancient Indian)
Beowulf (Medieval English)
The Edda (Medieval Icelandic)
Jewang Ungi (Medieval Korean)
Journey to the West (Medieval Chinese)
The Tale of the Heike (Medieval Japanese)